New state representative Marsh speaks Saturday in Ashland

BY Local report...

Newly elected — and now sworn-in — State House Dist. 5 Rep. Pam Marsh speaks Saturday, Jan. 14, at a meeting of the American Association of University Women (AAUW). The meeting, which starts with a social time at 9:30 a.m. before the program program commences at 10 in the Diversion Room of Stevenson Union on the Southern Oregon University Ashland campus, is open to the public.

AAUW has asked Marsh to discuss legislative priorities for 2017, particularly equal pay. The audience will have the chance to ask questions and then participate in a table activity exploring more deeply the issue of pay equity and to share personal workplace experiences in which women were treated differently because of their gender.

“It is now, after an election that the real work begins,” said Lisa Maatz, the AAUW National Vice President of Government Relations and Advocacy. ”Women want progress on issues that affect them.”

Marsh succeeds retiring Peter Buckley from Ashland, and represents southern Jackson County, except Medford. She made “working for issues that are fundamental to families and communities” the cornerstone of her campaign. During her term, she plans to address issues that are important for women and girls: education from birth through college or post-high school training, poverty, childcare, and transportation.

Her background includes political experience in California and Oregon, most recently as a member of the Ashland City Council. She is also co-owner of the Green Springs Inn and, until recently, served as executive director of the Ashland Emergency Food Bank.

In support of her efforts to feed those in need, AAUW asks that attending members bring a non- perishable food item to donate. Donations will also be collected for Dunn House.